Sentry Insurance Brokers 10th Anniversary Special by Nation Publishing Co. Limited

12-PAGE FEATURE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015.

Tenth Anniversary Special

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015.

MIDWEEK NATION SPECIAL

STEPHEN OLLIVIERRE, MANAGING DIRECTOR. (GP) AS THE AGE-OLD proverbial saying goes “no man is an island” and indeed our decade-long journey is a precise reflection of this reality. From our origin and throughout our evolution, our success has hinged upon the collective effort, commitment, and synergies of our support base. It would therefore be remiss of us to isolate our celebration to our founders alone as we are delighted to share this moment with those many stakeholders who have supported our existence and catapulted our market leadership. Such support and endorsement has spurred our rapid growth over the past decade which has seen Sentry Insurance Brokers magnify from a mere speck in the brokerage ointment to the largest indigenously owned

insurance brokerage and a force to be reckoned with in the industry. While it is an incredible feat to single out every individual who has contributed directly or indirectly to our success and growth, it remains paramount that in the celebration of our milestone of ten years’ excellence that we salute the following key groups: The Almighty for his spiritual support and guidance. Our loyal staff for their significant contribution to our daily existence. Our valued clients for their trust and devotion. Our family and friends for their unwavering encouragement and understanding. Our insurance company

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ALAN KELLY, DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR. (GP)

• From Page 2. counterparts for their continued cooperation and service. As we continue our journey throughout these potentially perilous economic waters of uncertainty, one thing is certain: our passion for excellent service. We pledge to stop at nothing to ensure our clients’ get the best value in service because their comfort and satisfaction are our barometers of success. We wish all of our stakeholders the best in the road

ahead and we look forward to the same spirit of support and harmonious ties that define Sentry Insurance Brokers. On behalf of Sentry Insurance Brokers, it gives us immeasurable pleasure to declare that not only are we proud to be ten but we are even prouder to be a Bajan ten – a fully Bajan-owned ten and a market leader. Thank you for making us your No.1; we will continue to repay the favour. – STEPHEN OLLIVIERRE and ALAN KELLY

STEPHEN OLLIVIERRE JP Managing Director

ALAN KELLY Deputy Managing Director

A SEASONED INSURANCE PROFESSIONAL with 32 years’ experience, Stephen Ollivierre has held senior executive management positions with some of the largest insurance brokerage companies in the Caribbean and has managed the risk exposures of transnational and multinational corporations doing business in the Caribbean and served as the principal contact for some of the largest insurance brokerages in the world.

ALAN KELLY HAS HELD senior positions with some of the largest insurance brokerage, insurance and reinsurance companies in the Caribbean. He also previously managed the risk exposure for transnational of multinational corporations conducting business in the Caribbean. With over 17 years’ experience as an insurance professional, Kelly possesses a strong background in life underwriting as well as pecuniary insurance.

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Stories by: Design/layout: Pictures by: Advertising:

FOUNDED IN 2005, and currently celebrating its tenth year in business, Sentry Insurance Brokers, located at Belleville, St Michael (next door to Holborn Pharmacy), has become a force to be reckoned with among insurance brokers in Barbados. Expertise, excellent, fast, reliable customer care service, and a friendly,

CHERYL HARWOOD LYLE JONES, JULIA S. HAYNES IAN HAREWOOD KELLY JOHNALLY

reputable team headed by managing director Stephen Ollivierre JP, and deputy managing director Alan Kelly, have all worked together to place this insurance brokerage firm in an enviable position during the last decade. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diverse leadership

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FLASHBACK 2013

SENTRY INSURANCE BROKERS is known throughout the industry as a reliable brokerage company which can always be counted on to source and provide clients with favourable insurance quotes on motor, business, home and more. (FP)

Team goes all out for clients • From Page 4.

team not only boasts substantial expertise in integrated insurance solutions, but pride themselves on customer knowledge, insight, global networks coupled with local expertise, and an outstanding quality of service, all of which strengthen the company’s brand and reputation in the marketplace. One of Sentry’s hallmarks is the ability to manage claims and ensure prompt and fair settlements are professionally handled to the benefit of each client. Services include, but are not limited to: Reducing insurance costs for clients Identifying, measuring, and reducing risk Designing insurance specifications Managing tenders and insurance quotations Analysing and selecting base on coverage, financial strength, and claims practices Developing a sense of policy awareness and adherence. Competent staff provide insurance brokerage services to small, medium-sized and large businesses, groups, and individuals involved in a range of services in the marketplace, including leaders in the construction, hotel, medical, and transport industries. Sentry is also known throughout the industry as a reliable brokerage company which can always be counted on to source and provide clients and prospective clients with favourable insurance quotes on home, motor, business, travel, fire, liability, aviation, marine, hurricane, and volcanic losses among others. In addition, the company’s experienced team respond to calls on a 24-hour basis. The company is a firm believer in giving back to the community, and is deeply rooted in a culture of service which supports community-oriented projects. This is evident in its active donations to fundraising activities at schools and churches across the island, as well as the role played in sponsoring champion sports headliners such as the Deacons women’s volleyball team. While based in Barbados, Sentry Insurance Brokers maintains strong brokerage affiliations in Grenada, Trinidad, Jamaica, St Lucia and St Vincent. Sentry is also proud to be the correspondent in Barbados for AON, the world’s leading insurance broker. Last year, the company received the coveted Barbados Small Business Association Award for general services.

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VOLLEYBALL knockout queens Flow Sentry Brokers Deacons celebrating their triumph with coaches Andrew Culpepper (left) and Elwyn Oxley (right). (FP)

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Managing claims experience a joy MANAGING INSURANCE CLAIMS is a “joy” and not a chore for claims manager at Sentry Insurance Brokers, Leswyn Richards. According to Richards: “We try to manage client expectations throughout the claims process, all within the shortest possible time. While some claims may be similar in nature, you will never

encounter two identical claims, so our mindset is always proactive especially when some episodes warrant a bit of innovation – thinking outside the box so to speak – to keep the process flowing.” Richards, who has experience in the areas of underwriting, sales and accounting, believes “the

HEALTH AND ACCIDENT INSURANCE TEAM: Safiya Bignall (left) and Kimel Grant. (GP)

most important duty as a broker is to add value. “That’s what differentiates Sentry Insurance Brokers from other entities. “Essentially, you will find prices/rates driving the competition but that value added component sets you apart. There are plenty of new technologies, clever concepts, and even trends that could help companies offer better service to consumers, but too few companies understand that amid all this rapid change, the fundamentals of great service remain the same. It’s about the feeling of being recognised, listened to, valued, and cared for.” With over 12 years’ experience within the insurance industry, Richards has seen it all and is also pleased with the relationships that exist between clients and Sentry

Insurance Brokers. He also holds the view that “Insurance brokers and insurance companies can still improve on the services and products offered to their clients, notwithstanding the current market limitations. With concerted collaboration and efforts, the industry as a whole should explore more seminars and workshops featuring ways to enhance the public’s knowledge on the benefits of insurance, whether it be property and casualty or health.” He also appealed to drivers to remain focused on the roads, ensure their licences are always current, and maintain their vehicle’s functionality. Similarly, he urged homeowners to ensure their building values were adequate to avoid potential diminution adjustments to their claims.

LESWYN RICHARDS, claims manager (left), and Benjamin Ollivierre, claims officer. Missing is Warren Kellman. (GP) He also stressed that policyholders should review their policy documents thoroughly, and seek the necessary clarity on any grey areas from their insurance representative. Richards is supported by his his team of

administrators in Warren Kellman and Benjamin Ollivierre. “With Ben and Warren, I am blessed in some of the most passionate, caring, circumventing service providers anywhere around,” he said.

MANAGING DIRECTOR STEPHEN OLIVIERRE (centre, back row) and deputy managing director Alan Kelly (second left, back row), with the Sentry Insurance team of brokers. (GP)

Understanding the role of an insurance broker Q: What is an insurance broker and their role? A: An insurance broker is an independent insurance intermediary who works with many insurance companies on behalf of their clients. A typical insurance agent works for one specific company and chooses policies for their clients from within that company. A broker is different, as he has access to many insurance companies and their products. Q: What are the benefits of using

an insurance broker? A: Finding the right level of insurance, saving time and money. Since they are experts in the market, brokers can use their knowledge and experience to advise you on a suitable level of cover. Given the high volume of business they handle, they can secure exclusive deals from insurers. A broker is responsible for ensuring that any optional extras or cover not included within your policy

are clearly disclosed giving you the opportunity to rectify where possible. Not only is your broker there to see you obtain the best deals available on the market, but any claims are dealt with via your broker to save you the hassle and worry, through what can be a difficult and frustrating process. Q: Would I have to pay a broker for his or her services? A: No. Using a broker doesn’t cost

more than going direct. Brokers are paid a commission by the insurance provider for selling their products so you shouldn’t need to pay an additional fee on top of your premium. Q: What additional services could a broker offer? A: A broker could assist in identifying and measuring risk, designing, implementing and measuring risk control measures,

contingency planning and claims negotiation services. Q: When should I engage the services of a broker? A: Immediately. Whether you’re looking for basic car insurance or a complete suite of business coverages, you need to find the right insurance that will keep you protected. An independent insurance broker 0is your best option.

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HEALTH AND ACCIDENT INSURANCE TEAM: Safiya Bignall (left) and Kimel Grant. (GP)

administrators in Warren Kellman and Benjamin Ollivierre. “With Ben and Warren, I am blessed in some of the most passionate, caring, circumventing service providers anywhere around,” he said.

MANAGING DIRECTOR STEPHEN OLIVIERRE (centre, back row) and deputy managing director Alan Kelly (second left, back row), with the Sentry Insurance team of brokers. (GP)

MIDWEEK NATION SPECIAL

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015.

Woe betide the uninsured business THERE IS a dire need for small business owners to insure their properties and contents. That’s the view of Ron Harewood, senior commercial broker and head of the Business Insurance Department at Sentry Insurance Brokers. While acknowledging that within the current economic climate “many business owners were barely holding on to their businesses”, Harewood said businesses would encounter additional financially crippling effects due to fire or any loss if their properties were uninsured.

“Generally, many people do not realise they need insurance until they encounter a disaster of some sort,” he staid. Harewood also said while insurance was not mandatory, with the exception of third party motor, it stood to make recovery of losses extremely beneficial for the insured. “Some businesses just simply operate without insurance. This is not advisable. On the other hand, many large businesses tend to appreciate the need for insurance. They will purchase insurance against damages resulting from fire, hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, theft, burglary and so

on,” Harewood added. Having spent eight years in the insurance industry with responsibility for a variety of portfolios, Harewood’s current role as senior broker sees him straddling both business and personal insurance portfolios at Sentry Insurance Brokers. His primary role, however, is meeting the insurance needs of business clients seeking property, motor, travel, marine, liability and other subcategories of insurance. As a broker, he also conducts research and insurance surveys on corporate businesses

in a bid to ensure insurance companies fully understand what the client needs to have insured. “We look at such things as the construction of the properties and their usages to determine the risk involved, and seek to meet whatever insurance services our clients require”, Harewood said. Harewood’s support team comprises Tricia Cadogan (brokerage assistant for both business and personal insurance), Krista-Lee Layne (brokerage assistant), Sherry Straker (senior broker for personal insurance), and Racine Trotman (broker).

Congratulations to

Sentry Insurance Brokers for providing

10 Years of Excellent Service

RON HAREWOOD, SENIOR COMMERCIAL BROKER, HEAD, BUSINESS INSURANCE DEPARTMENT. (GP)

Brokers good for businesses ONE OF THE reasons businesses should “hire” the services of an insurance broker is because each business has its uniqueness. As senior commercial broker at Sentry Insurance Brokers, Ron Harewood, explained: “Sometimes people seek to start businesses which are not considered your normal kind of business. “These may require special attention and services which every insurance company may not be willing to or be capable of managing. Sentry approaches the insurance companies which are most capable of providing for the business’ needs. These companies then provide Sentry with their most competitive insurance quotations, which are then compiled and presented to the business with no additional charge by Sentry. This process also creates healthy competition among companies within the insurance industry. “Brokers also have a better sense of how the average person views the industry and can seek to educate them about the insurance policies which best suit their needs.” Harewood disclosed that due to increased unemployment and financial challenges being faced by many at this time, some insurance companies were

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COGNISANT of the fact that many people do not have the kind of disposable income as in times past, Sentry Insurance Brokers, in collaboration with insurance companies, has created payment plans to facilitate the needs of customers. According to insurance broker Sherry Straker, who heads the personal lines of insurance services for individuals seeking motor, residential and other forms of personal insurance services, insurance companies work hand in hand with Sentry Insurance Brokers and lend assistance in whatever way possible. “Each individual case is different. We at Sentry Insurance Brokers do our best to tailor packages to meet the various needs and circumstances of the customer. We work as a team and are cross-trained to handle any area of insurance – whether business or personal insurance. Our aim is simply to ensure customer satisfaction. In this regard, we seek to deliver excellent customer service at all times.” Straker first entered the insurance brokerage industry in Tobago, where she spent five years, before migrating to Barbados. She has a total of 22 years’ experience in the field. She views the insurance brokerage industry as “a dynamic industry where you can practically sell and advise on any class of insurance”. According to this veteran: “The number of people turning to insurance brokers is growing. Their expectations are that we are more equipped to offer better rates and advice. They are also aware that if they are combining, let’s say, their home and motor insurance, we, as brokers, can get them an even better deal. We look at every aspect of what the insurance companies are offering to benefit the client.” Straker added: “We (the brokers) are also the ones who interface with those at the insurance companies. This saves our clients time and any undue stress.”

• From Page 8. dropping premium rates and running advertising promotions to aid their clients. “At Sentry, we are sure to make our clients aware of the discounts offered by insurance companies to members of the Barbados Association of Retired Persons (BARP), credit unions, et cetera. Some insurers also offer special rates for female drivers who, according to reports, have less major accidents than men,” he said. Harewood also said insurance companies today were more fully aware of the benefits of insurance brokers, even helping them, on the advice of the broker, not to incur “too high an individual risk”. He explained: “Let’s say you have a large company with a worth of $50 million. Co-insurance policies are typically used to cover a risk of this size. These policies are structured with a primary or lead insurance company which is supported by multiple insurance companies in order to cover the same risk. The broker then acts and manages what negotiations are necessary between the company (the insured) and the insurance companies (the insurers). “In other words, the broker acts as mediator between the client and insurance companies.”

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‘ We (the brokers) are also the ones who interface with those at the insurance companies. ‘This saves our clients time and any undue stress.’

SHERRY STRAKER, BROKER. (GP)

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ESCALATING COSTS of health care are making medical insurance a necessity rather than an option. That’s the view of Safiya Bignall, broker of the Accident and Health Department at Sentry Insurance Brokers. "There is no doubt that changes in the healthcare system, especially as it relates to costs, will affect some people’s ability to receive adequate medical attention.

SAFIYA BIGNALL, BROKER, ACCIDENT AND

HEALTH. (GP)

“I always seek to encourage people to purchase health insurance at an early age. When it comes to one’s health, it’s not a case of if you’ll become sick, but rather how sick a person may become,” Bignall said. She further emphasised that medical insurance was vital and especially helpful when an individual travelled outside of his or her country should they fall ill. The bid by Sentry Insurance Brokers to educate the public at large on the importance of health insurance has seen Bignall paying close attention to a number of marketing strategies, including encouraging potential corporate clients, as well as family and friends, to purchase medical insurance while still young. “This should be seen as a priority as many insurance companies will not allow an individual to purchase health insurance after the age of 65. “Having medical insurance gives an individual various options and a measure of peace of mind and security, especially in the area of preventative care, where a number of annual health tests will incur only a fraction of the cost to the insured,” Bignall further added. With ten years’ experience in the medical insurance field, Bignall is well equipped to further enhance the growth of Sentry’s accident/health, corporate and personal portfolios while providing all-inclusive customer services to policyholders. She is assisted in her role by treasury officer Kimel Grant.

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‘Sentry is blessed with an accounts team who are always willing to go the extra mile. Each team member values the intangibles of enrichment and development.They have gone through a litany of changes, but have maintained a positive spirit.’ – Damian Bowen, finance consultant, Capital M Consultants (Picture by Ricardo Leacock.)

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015.

THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT TEAM: (from left) Cyrilene Lythcott, senior accounts officer; Joyann Jones, accounts officer; Kimel Grant, treasury officer; and Keisha Greaves, cashier/receptionist. (GP)

Finance team embraces systems upgrades THE LATEST FINANCE and technological systems within Sentry Insurance Brokers’ restructured Finance Department have placed the company in a position to better service external and internal customers. Thanks to finance consultant Damian Bowen of Capital M Consultants, Sentry’s Finance Department has undergone many changes in the past two years. With 12 years’ experience in the field of finance, under his belt, eight of which lie within in the insurance industry, Bowen has utilised his combined knowledge to provide leadership and support to Sentry’s finance team. Part of his restructuring processes has also witnessed upgrades to the company’s regulatory and audit compliance, as well as enhanced support and improved relations with the various insurance companies within the industry. He highly praised the finance team for their strong willingness and determination to adapt to the various new financial procedures and frameworks and noted that achieving these various milestones would not have been possible without their commitment to change. “Sentry is blessed with an accounts team who are always willing to go the extra mile. Each team member values the intangibles of enrichment and development. They have gone through a litany of changes, but have maintained a positive spirit,” Bowen remarked. “We are also currently in the process of upgrading our management information system which is earmarked for completion by June next year,” he added. “In this upgrade, I feel privileged to be surrounded by Sentry’s entire team who never once shirked at the quantum of work before them; our focus is always our destination not the journey. In addition to his primary finance role, Bowen gives business development support to managing director, Stephen Ollivierre and deputy managing director, Alan Kelly within Barbados and across the Eastern Caribbean. The Finance Department team comprises treasury officer Kimel Grant, accounts officer Joyann Jones, senior accounts officer Cyrilene Lythcott, and cashier/receptionist Keisha Greaves.

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SPECIALISTS IN all classes of personal and commercial insurance, the team at Sentry Insurance Brokers has distinguished themselves from their competitors by being accessible 24-hours daily, seven days a week. Each team member is hands-on in providing sound advice, obtaining “SENTRY INSURANCE BROKERS is a serviceoriented company with pleasant, efficient and responsive staff who strive to achieve effective results for their clients. It is with great pleasure to recommend the team of professionals at Sentry Insurance Brokers.”

competitive premiums and guiding clients to the selection of an insurance company that best meets their needs. The following testimonials by satisfied clients and business associates bear testimony to the exceptional service provided by the Sentry Insurance Brokers team:

“I HAVE NEVER experienced the high level of consistent service which I receive from Sentry Insurance Brokers from any other industry player during the past 15 years.” – HENRY JORDAN, managing director, SunPower.

“WE ENJOY AN excellent relationship with Sentry Insurance Brokers, which is underpinned by – MARTIN DA SILVA, good service. chief executive Officer, Additionally, Innotech Services there is also Limited. a comfortable relationship from office to office, between staff.” “MY EXPERIENCE with Sentry – FRANCIS POUNDER, Insurance Brokers is that the managing director, personalised service they offer as h Equity Insurances D is so much more superior from E d IMIT NCO L le to depen Limited. other insurance brokers we have O C E ab “PR e been dealt with. They find the best lways r y Insuranc t a and t n solutions for all my insurance n e ll e ponse e S s c x n e r e o k r quic needs and things the average liable rs fo Broke er ser vice, as their re al person would overlook, they u ll m n e o n t w a as cus ur ring o ensure you have insurance for.” ment, settle e in prepa proposal.” director, is e – CALVIN ALKINS, managing exper t ce coverag , managing n Y director, Calvin Alkins insura K MALONE . R Customs Services. d A e it M – im nco L Preco